Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips (and nuts or dried fruit, if using).

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.